A Year in the Life of Blackwood Lane Winery - The Highlights!
As Blackwood Lane enters 2019, it’s apropos that we take a moment to reflect upon the amazing year they’ve had! It’s hard to believe that so much has happened in only 12 short months—so much, in fact, that it’s hard to even know where to begin!
Blackwood Lane Wine Releases
2009 The Refèrence
It’s been a banner year for wine releases! Perhaps the most exciting was the release of Blackwood Lane’s 5 Star, 2009 The Refèrence. To celebrate this momentous occasion, Carlos Lee, owner of Blackwood Lane, held an open house for his Sommelier Club members, who were treated to Kimberley’s homemade paella–which paired fabulously with Carlos’ iconic Bordeaux Blend.
2013 Cabernet Franc
Carlos followed the release of the 2009 The Refèrence with his 2013 Cabernet Franc. What better way to usher in this outstanding wine than with a masquerade party! Guests had the good fortune of receiving prodigious pours of the new 2013 Cabernet Franc, a vintage that Carlos describes as a “happy wine.”
2010 Cabernet Sauvignon
To kick off the release of Blackwood Lane’s 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon, Carlos invited his guests to a black and white themed party! Ironically, the Black and White theme stood in stark contrast to the Cabernet Sauvignon itself, whose flavours, notes and textures are anything but two-toned. In contrast (pun intended) the adjective of the evening was “complex.” Guest enjoyed fabulous hors-d’oeuvres and were truly impressed with this amazing Cab Sauv!
2010 The President
Perhaps saving the best for last, Carlos released his most ambitious wine to date–The President. An instant classic, and only produced in limited quantities, this Bordeaux-style blend of Cab Sauv, Cab Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec, is the product of Carlos’ expertise, passion and abiding love of handcrafted wine made in the traditional French style. This is a wine that wine collectors and oenophiles will want in their wine cellars!
Blackwood Lane Events
Arguably, the one thing that Carlos loves more than making the best wines in Canada, is sharing them with his extended Blackwood Lane family. This year was no exception as he proved, once again, that he is the host with the most!
Valentine’s Day
Wine and romance go hand-in-hand, so it’s no surprise that Blackwood Lane hosted one of the most memorable Valentines dinners ever! While the custom catered dinner paired exquisitely with each wine, the highlight was when Carlos decided to treat his guests to a vertical tasting of his legendary 2006, 2007 and 2008 vintages of Alliànce! People are still talking about it today!
Cinco de Mayo
Blackwood Lane was proud to host its first outdoor event featuring their brand-new patio! As a 6-piece Latin band played lively music, guests were treated roast pig (cooked whole on a spit) and gourmet handmade pizza, made fresh in Blackwood’s own brick pizza oven. Of course, the wine paired elegantly with it all!
Mother’s Day
Blackwood Lane honoured our fabulous mothers by offering a special VIP Mother’s Day wine tasting, charcuterie and wine cellar tours! It was a grand success and families and their mothers had a wonderful day not only sampling the best wines in Canada but getting the chance to learn how they are made from Carlos himself!
Winemaker’s Dinner
A definite highlight of 2018 was Blackwood Lane’s Winemaker’s Dinner, held at La Terrazza. Owner and oenophile, Giulio Meceli, was a most gracious host, as he led guests through a delectable 6-course dinner, all paired perfectly with Blackwood Lane wines. Giulio really got into the swing of things as the evening progressed, sharing his own personal 2006 The Refèrence library wines with us! It was truly an evening to remember!
Canada Day
Blackwood Lane’s gorgeous patio was the place to be on Canada Day! Carlos celebrated the day, unveiling his 2014 Ruby Rosé, as guests were treated to fresh house-made ceviche and paella! This was all accompanied by a 6-piece Latin band!
Christmas Dinner
Blackwood Lane held a fabulous Christmas dinner this year! One of the highlights was when Carlos revealed that he was going to share one of only two magnums of The Refèrence “Allier” with his guests—a once in a lifetime experience! The other Magnum was gifted to Kelli, who is sadly leaving the Blackwood family for new adventures!
A Year to Remember!
While Blackwood Lane catches its breath from an eventful and fun-filled year, we can’t wait to see what they come up within 2019! One thing for sure – the wine will be outstanding!
